Are you a trekking enthusiast? Then Peru is the place to be at. Packed with mesmerizing treks that pave through breathtaking scenery, Peru hosts a treasure of the world’s finest treks and trails.
Here are our top 5 picks for the best treks in Peru.
Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu extends for 26 miles (43 km) and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery and is the most popular requested trek. The Inca Trail is considered a moderate hike; however, there are a lot of staircases to climb, and the altitude can also affect the body. The trek starts in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and ends at Machu Picchu. The trail makes its way through the beautiful Andean scenery that offers mesmerizing views of the mountains, the sub-tropical Amazon Jungle before reaching the most prized destination in not only Peru, but perhaps the world; Machu Picchu. Since demand for hiking on this track is extremely high and the number of hikers allowed per season is limited by the available number of permits, it is recommended to book the trek at least 6 months in advance. Alluring Americas offers 4 day and 5 day hikes, the latter including an overnight stay at a hotel in Machu Picchu. For those on a limited time, we recommend the 2 day Inca Trail Express program which includes hiking on the first day and an overnight at Machu Picchu, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the citadel the next day. Best time to hike the Inca Trail is April to November with May-Sep being the most popular time and permits usually sold out by March.
Lares Trek
Often regarded as one of the alternate hikes to the Inca Trail trek, the Lares Trek is located near village Lares. It lies north of Cusco and east of Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek takes you off the beaten track with visits to authentic Andean communities whilst being surrounded by stunning mountains, lakes and valleys. This fabulous trek offers a real insight in to the lives of the people of Cusco as it once was. The Lares Trek is considered a moderate hike. It’s not a technical hike but the altitude may affect some individuals. The trek starts and ends in the Sacred Valley allowing a hiker to take the train to Machu Picchu at the end of the trek. Best time to experience the Lares Trek is April to November.
Salkantay Trek
Featured among the best 25 treks in the world by National Geographic Adventure Travel Magazine, the Salkantay Trek lays close to the Inca Trail. A perfect alternate to the Inca Trail Trek, this trek is a must for those looking to experience authentic local culture, beautiful scenery, solitude and peace. The trek starts in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and ends at Machu Picchu. It passes through ancient routes that offer amazing views of the surrounding mountains and rainforest. The 89 km/55 mile trail runs through high Andean peaks, cloud forest, and steamy jungle. The Salkantay Peak – Savage Mountain – is located within the Vilcabamba mountain range, to the northwest of Cusco and is one of the highest and most spectacular mountains in the Andes (6,271 m / 20, 574 ft.). Salkantay is considered a challenging but certainly not impossible hike. Due to the physical demands, anyone who wishes to trek Salkantay should at least be moderately fit. Best time to experience the Salkantay Trek is April to November.
Choquequirao Trek
Choquequirao Trek begins at a point located approximately five hours from Cusco and is perhaps the most challenging of these 5 picks. The Choquequirao trek is a truly spectacular hike that plunges down into the Apurimac canyon and then up again to the fascinating ruins of Choquequirao. This is a very unique trail in the high Andes offering hikers a blend of climatic variations prevalent in the region. From views of sandy mountains to snow-capped peaks, it is a popular destination for photographers, movie makers and tourists. While this is a challenging trek, you are rewarded with spectacular views the whole way. The ruins of Choquequirao, perched on a ledge high above the Apurimac are not as extensive as Machu Picchu, but probably more fascinating as they are much more remote. The trek starts and ends in Cusco. Best time to experience the Choquequirao Trek is April to November.
Santa Cruz Trek
Peru’s Cordillera Blanca is one of the most concentrated collections of big peaks in the Western Hemisphere, with 33 summits topping 5,400 meters (18,000 feet). The most popular way to experience this mountain range is to take the Santa Cruz Trek, considered by many as one of the best hiking routes in the world. The Santa Cruz Trek begins and ends in Huaraz located about an hour’s flight from Lima. Hike through open valleys, passing high snow-capped mountain peaks along rivers and the shores of brightly colored lagoons. The highlight is the crossing of Punta Union 4,760 m (15,617 feet)— for most hikers a personal altitude record! Santa Cruz trek is considered an easy to moderate trek. Best time to experience the Santa Cruz Trek is May to September.
To arrange for a spectacular trip including one of these fascinating treks, contact our Peru Destination Specialists at sales@alluringamericas.com or call 800-701-4278.